There are eight Australians from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences with disability, chosen to champion International Day of People with Disability and disability inclusion.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the ambassadors were a genuine reflection of the diversity of people with disability in Australia.
“Our ambassadors provide different perspectives of what it means to be a person with disability, and this is why the ambassador program is so important,” she said. “This year’s ambassadors highlight how disability can intersect with other factors such as age, gender identity, sexual orientation and cultural background.”
They will work to elevate the voices and experiences of people with disability to play a part in shifting attitudes about disability.
“We know that for young people, particularly those with disability, that honest, accurate representation is crucial in helping to establish their own unique sense of identity,” the minister said.
The IDPwD 2024 Ambassadors are:
- Uncle Paul Constable-Calcott: Artist and disability advocate who uses his art to share his journey as a gay First Nations man living with disability in urban Australia.
- Marcus Dadd: A farmer and disability advocate from Mudgee, NSW.
- Khadija Gbla: Award-winning intuitive speaker, human rights activist and compassionate thought leader.
- Hayden Moon: Dancer, writer and passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+, First Nations and disability issues.
- Sara Shams: Disability advocate, model, speaker, and healthcare professional.
- Cooper Smith: DJ and music producer with cerebral palsy who communicates through his music.
- Sean Skeels and Marley Whatarau: best friends who have bonded through dancing and making cooking videos together.
IDPwD is a United Nations observed day held annually on December 3.
For further information about IDPwD visit: www.idpwd.com.au.
Photo: Cooper Smith